Guaranteed Analysis on Dog Treats Explained
The guaranteed analysis is the small table on a pet food or treat label. Here's how to read it and compare products. This is general information, not veterinary advice.
What it shows
The guaranteed analysis lists a minimum percentage of crude protein and crude fat, and a maximum percentage of crude fiber and moisture. Those four are the only nutrients a manufacturer must include, although some labels add others.
- Crude protein (minimum).
- Crude fat (minimum).
- Crude fiber (maximum).
- Moisture (maximum).
"Crude" refers to the lab method used to measure the nutrient. It doesn't mean low quality. "Minimum" and "maximum" mean the actual amount is at or above (or at or below) the number shown.
Comparing products fairly: moisture matters
The numbers on the label are "as is," which includes water. A moist treat and a dry chew can't be compared directly. To compare, convert to dry matter: divide the nutrient percentage by the dry matter percentage (100 minus the moisture percentage), then multiply by 100.
Example, for illustration only: a chew with 30% protein and 10% moisture has 30 ÷ 90 × 100, or about 33% protein on a dry matter basis.
Why numbers vary
Natural products vary from batch to batch. A label with typical values, or with exact lab results, should say which. If a seller gives exact numbers, it's reasonable to ask if they come from lab testing.
What the table doesn't tell you
- Whether a chew suits your dog's size, age or allergies
- How digestible it is, or the quality of the protein
- How many calories it has. Look for a calorie statement, or ask the seller.
Related guides
Sources
- eXtension (U.S. university extension network): Pet Food Labels: Guaranteed Analysis